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Holi (होली), is a religious
spring festival celebrated by Hindus. Holi is also known as festival of
Colours. It is primarily observed in India, Nepal, Pakistan,[1] and
countries with large Indic diaspora populations following Hinduism, such
as Suriname, Malaysia, Guyana, South Africa, Trinidad, United Kingdom,
United States, Mauritius, and Fiji. In some states of India such as West
Bengal and Orissa, it is known as Dolyatra (Doul Jatra) (Bengali:
দোলযাত্রা), or Basanta-Utsav ("spring festival")(Bengali: বসন্তোৎসব).
The most celebrated Holi is in the Braj region, in locations connected
to the Lord Krishna: Mathura, Vrindavan, Nandagaon, and Barsana. These
places have become tourist destinations during the festive season of
Holi. |
| The main day, Holi, also known as Dhuli in Sanskrit,
also Dhulheti, Dhulandi or Dhulendi, is celebrated by people throwing
scented powder and perfume at each other. Bonfires are lit on the eve of
the festival, also known as Holika Dahan (burning of Holika) or Chhoti
Holi (little Holi). After doing holika dalhan prayers are said and
praise is offered. The bonfires are lit in memory of the miraculous
escape that young Prahlad accomplished when Demoness Holika, sister of
Hiranyakashipu, carried him into the fire. Holika was burnt but Prahlad,
a staunch devotee of god Vishnu, escaped without any injuries due to his
unshakable devotion. Holika Dahan is referred to as Kama Dahanam in
South India. |
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